December 20, 2018
BATON ROUGE- Interventional cardiologists at Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS) are the first in Baton Rouge to utilize the recently FDA-approved stent to treat patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). Dr. Garland Green, interventional cardiologist at CIS, was the first to use the Eluvia Drug-Eluting Stent at Baton Rouge General on December 19.
The Eluvia Stent is designed to restore blood flow in the peripheral arteries above the knee. It features a unique drug-polymer combination intended to facilitate continued release of the drug to prevent narrowing of the vessel, often the cause of pain and disability for patients diagnosed with PAD.
“This drug-eluting stent is an advanced device in our toolbox to treat patients who suffer from peripheral artery disease,” said Dr. Green. “The era of drug-eluting stents in the extremities has officially begun!”
Peripheral artery disease is caused by plaque build-up or blockages in the legs. Just like clogged arteries in the heart, blocked arteries in the legs keep the organs from receiving oxygen-rich blood, which raises the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes. One in 20 Americans over the age of 50 have PAD, and though it is a common and treatable disease, it is largely unknown, often unrecognized, and its symptoms are commonly attributed to old age. Ultimately, PAD can reduce mobility and be fatal if left untreated.
Symptoms of PAD include:
If you think you may have PAD, a simple, painless ultrasound can test the blood flow in your legs to determine your risk.
To schedule an appointment with a CIS cardiologist, call CIS in Baton Rouge at 225-308-0247.